Seychelles — Visas and Vaccinations

Most visitors are granted entry permits on arrival, including those traveling from the US, Canada, the UK, most European countries, Australia and New Zealand. Passports should be valid for at least six months and hotels and return flights will also need to be pre-booked. The Seychelles is malaria-free.

Health and Safety

The Seychelles is a first world country, clean and safe by most standards. Crime levels are not high, though petty crime and crystal methamphetamine use is on the rise in Mahé. Main places to be aware of are back alleys in Victoria and the road behind Beau Vallon Beach at night. Look out for the special police wearing white or blue polo shirts at every Mahé beach if there are problems.

The waters look inviting everywhere, though some are hazardous for swimming at certain times of year with rip tides and dangerous currents so take note of any signs before jumping in. Although there have been two shark attacks in Praslin in recent years, this is not the norm.

Tap water is potable in tourist areas and usually in hotels, but it is best to stick with bottled water just to be sure. Avoid swimming in freshwater—ponds, lakes or streams. There is no malaria in the Seychelles, although the use of insect repellent at night is advised as the chikungunya virus from East Africa, which causes flu-like symptoms, comes and goes.

There are clinics on the islands, but the main hospital is in Victoria, Mahé Island (Victoria Hospital: +248-438-8000). Be sure to get travel insurance, which should cover for accidents, medical expenses, and theft.